Laurel & Black flies

My 4 year old laurel hedge seems to be thriving, however recently the 'this years growth' is covered in black flies. I can't see any damage but am concerned at the amount of flies. I would like to rectify it before damge occurs. Could it be due to the ridiculous amount of rain we've had this 'summer'?

13 Sep, 2008

Answers

Well, the first thing to try is diluted washing up liquid in a spray bottle and try washing them off! If you are OK with insecticides, spray with one ofthe ones for blackfly. It may be the lack of ladybirds that would normally help out!